- #1
DDTJRAC
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Sternwheelers have the paddle in the rear. Sidewheelers have paddles on both sides.
Traffic jam on the Ohio River! (1904)
- Thread starter DDTJRAC
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around historical and contemporary traffic patterns on the Ohio River, particularly focusing on the types of vessels used, such as sternwheelers and sidewheelers, and the challenges posed by barge traffic. Participants share observations and experiences related to similar waterways, including the Erie Canal.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants note the distinction between sternwheelers, which have paddles at the rear, and sidewheelers, which have paddles on both sides.
- One participant shares a photo and inquires about the current status of traffic delays on the Ohio River.
- Another participant draws a parallel to their experience on the Erie Canal, mentioning barges waiting to cross through a narrow water bridge conduit.
- A participant describes the size of coal barges, suggesting that they can be significantly larger when multiple barges are connected, with a typical configuration being 40 or 50 barges strapped together.
- One participant reiterates the observation about the size of coal barges and emphasizes that such configurations are still common on American rivers.
- Another participant provides additional context about the Waterford Flight on the Erie Canal, detailing its unique characteristics and historical significance.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants share observations and experiences related to barge traffic and vessel types, but there is no explicit consensus on the current traffic conditions or the implications of historical practices.
Contextual Notes
Some statements rely on personal observations and experiences, which may not encompass the full scope of current traffic conditions or historical practices.
Sternwheelers have the paddle in the rear. Sidewheelers have paddles on both sides.
- #2
jedishrfu
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Nice photo.
Did it clear up or can we still expect delays? :-)
Did it clear up or can we still expect delays? :-)
- #3
jedishrfu
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I recently saw similar pictures on a hike along the old Erie Canal near Syracuse, NY.
https://tugster.wordpress.com/2020/04/17/virtual-erie-canal-tour-a-1/
The barges lined up, waiting to cross through a narrow water bridge conduit.
https://tugster.wordpress.com/2020/04/17/virtual-erie-canal-tour-a-1/
The barges lined up, waiting to cross through a narrow water bridge conduit.
- #4
DDTJRAC
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I saw some humongous coal barges in a photo. But will have to find it. If you have seen a coal barge, then multiple it by 40 or 50 strapped together. Crazy what they used to do.
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still do, 40 barges is typical for American riversDDTJRAC said:
- #6
jtbell
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jedishrfu said:
They're waiting to go through the Waterford Flight, five locks in quick succession taking them up from the Hudson River to the Mohawk River.
Here's the uppermost lock of the flight in 1985.
Looking downhill from the end of that lock towards the entrance to the next one:
Wikipedia said:
Last edited:
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